🇬🇷 Classic Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
📝 Description
Classic Greek Salad, also known as Horiatiki, is a simple yet iconic Mediterranean dish made with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese. Dressed lightly with extra-virgin olive oil and oregano, this salad celebrates fresh ingredients without lettuce or heavy dressings. It’s refreshing, nourishing, and a perfect companion to grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread.
🍅 Ingredients
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3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
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2 medium cucumbers, sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
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½ small red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cup Kalamata olives (whole or pitted)
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4 oz (115 g) feta cheese, cut into a slab or large chunks
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
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Salt to taste (use lightly—feta and olives are salty)
Optional (traditional but debated):
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
👩🍳 Instructions
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Prepare vegetables:
Add tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and olives to a large serving bowl. -
Dress simply:
Drizzle with olive oil (and vinegar if using). -
Finish:
Place feta on top as a slab or chunks. Sprinkle with oregano and a little black pepper. -
Serve immediately, lightly tossing just before eating if desired.
🍽 Serving Ideas
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Serve with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish
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Pair with pita, crusty bread, or mezze plates
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Enjoy as a light lunch on its own
❓ Q & A
Q: Why is there no lettuce in a classic Greek salad?
A: Traditional Horiatiki relies on vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers—lettuce isn’t part of the classic recipe.
Q: Should feta be crumbled or left in a block?
A: Traditionally, feta is served as a slab on top so it stays creamy and doesn’t melt into the salad.
Q: Can I add bell peppers?
A: Yes—green bell peppers are traditional in many Greek regions.
Q: How long does Greek salad keep?
A: Best eaten fresh. If needed, store without feta for up to 24 hours.
Q: Is this Mediterranean-diet friendly?
A: Absolutely—olive oil, vegetables, and moderate cheese are Mediterranean staples.
